MDMK Leader Vaiko urges Indian Government to navigate Sri Lanka relations cautiously
January 31, Colombo (LNW): Vaiyapuri Gopalsamy, better known as Vaiko, the General Secretary of the Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK) and Member of Rajya Sabha, has called upon the Indian government to approach its relationship with Sri Lanka with careful consideration, particularly in light of China’s increasing presence in the island nation, The Hindu reported.
During an all-party meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi, Vaiko emphasised the strategic significance of China’s construction of a port in Hambantota, highlighting the potential threat that could emerge from the south.
In addition to geopolitical concerns, Vaiko drew attention to the alleged attacks on Tamil fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy, expressing deep concern over the reported fatalities of over 800 fishermen.
He urged the Indian government to address this issue promptly, emphasising the importance of safeguarding the lives and property of Tamil fishermen.
During the meeting, Vaiko also took the opportunity to criticise Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi, accusing him of making inconsistent remarks on various issues.
Responding to claims that Governor R.N. Ravi attributed India’s independence to Subhas Chandra Bose, Vaiko pointed out the Governor’s clarification and suggested that the Minister may not have been adequately informed on the matter.
Furthermore, Vaiko expressed apprehension about the potential threats to Indian democracy, cautioning against the implementation of policies driven by “Hindutva forces,” such as one country, one election, one language, and one religion, which, according to him, could pose significant risks to the democratic fabric of the nation.
